MINDLESS vandals smashed up a caravan before stealing from the property.

The caravan, in Green Lane, Althorne, was broken into by a gang of crooks.

The group wrenched off the door of the caravan and smashed a window.

They then ransacked the caravan as they searched for goods to steal, taking a number of items.

The incident occurred some time last month.

The victim has since been forced to move the caravan from the property.

Witnesses are urged to contact Essex Police on 101, quoting crime reference 42/50100/19.